Military Whistleblower Protection Act announced by Stutzman

U.S. Congressman Marlin Stutzman issued the following statement today after co-sponsoring the Military Whistleblower Protection Act introduced by Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (R-IN).

“The increasing rate of sexual assaults in the military is abhorrent and must be addressed immediately. Americans who stare down threats abroad must be protected from threats within their own ranks. I’m proud to join my friend and Hoosier colleague Congresswoman Walorski who has worked tirelessly on this critical issue. This legislation will strengthen military whistleblower protections to make sure that the victims of these terrible crimes do not face retaliation for exposing their attackers.”

Background:

· Congressman Stutzman is a co-sponsor of H.R. 1864, the Military Whistleblower Protection Act, legislation that strengthens military whistleblower protections to clarify that victims are protected from punishment resulting from their report of sexual assault.

· Earlier this month, the Pentagon estimated that 26,000 sex crimes were committed in the armed forces last year alone.

Last week, General Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, called the increase in sexual assaults a “crisis.” Today, President Obama will meet with Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and military leaders to discuss the issue.